Archives: Act 2

Re-watch the film and stage performances of the Porter’s monologue in Act II, Scene iii of Macbeth. Compare and contrast with the lines of the play. Which version of the Porter do you feel best represents the atmosphere and mood of the play? Why? Post to your blog.

Things to focus on (as we discussed today in class):

make-up

setting

music

wardrobe

props

lines omitted or added

lighting

emotion

tone of voice

facial expression

body language

These are the ones we watched in class BUT there are many more. Do a search and see which ones resonate the most with you.

Which song do you think best represents Act II of Romeo and Juliet and why? Post to your blog. Refer specifically to dialogue within the play, the song lyrics, and the imagery of the music video itself. Click on the title below to access the song lyrics. Reference appropriately.

Romeo and Juliet is Timeless! There have been many adaptations of Shakespeare’s canonical love story. In this media comparison, and accompanying blog post, you will compare and contrast 3 versions (maybe 4 – if you choose to include discussion of the 2013 version) of the balcony scene from Romeo & Juliet: the original text (in graphic novel form), the 1968 and 1996 movie versions.

Write a blog post discussing these versions of the balcony scene – compare and contrast the material.

Use this Venn Diagram to plan your thoughts – 11 x 17 paper is available on the front desk for you to use.

EXTENSION

In regards to the 2013 adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, movie reviewer, Susan Wloszczyna, writes, “The balcony scene takes a tumble. This is the movie’s greatest disappointment. Really, if you can’t get this right, then why even do Romeo and Juliet? Steinfeld and Booth both struggle with Shakespeare’s poetic rhythms. Give them points for even remembering the lines. Meanwhile, the soundtrack with its tooting flutes and twittering violins undercuts every verse. As for the fake vine that Romeo climbs upon—in addition to the faux rose seen previously—they look as if they were plucked from a bargain bin at a Michaels arts and crafts store.” (http://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/romeo-and-juliet-2013)

What do you think? How would you respond to Ms. Wloszczyna? Add as an extension to your Venn diagram and include your analysis in your blog post.

Whereas I don’t want you to consider this an “essay” per se, I want you to consider this blog post within the following format. Compare and contrast post / essays are not easy as there are many structures you can consider and explore. Try this one and focus on three components to discuss ONLY.